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January 2024

2023 Proves to be an Exciting Year at PHX

As 2023 ended, the activity at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport did not show any signs of slowing down. In fact, the entire year was comprised of new record-setting milestones as well as the breaking of old records in air travel service. All this activity generated a momentum that’s taken us into the new year. Let’s take a quick look back and highlight some of these important moments.

On Monday, Feb. 13, more than 200,000 passengers came through the airport. This was the day after Super Bowl LVII and it immediately became the single busiest day in Phoenix Sky Harbor’s history. The airport worked closely with the airlines and other stakeholders to prepare for the entire week leading up to the big game. Combined with the Super Bowl, the Valley of the Sun also welcomed visitors coming in for the WM Phoenix Open, contributing to these record numbers.

The airport set a new milestone last summer by hosting the first ever Dementia Friendly Air Travel Workshop. The highly acclaimed workshop brought together representatives from the airport, airlines, and TSA to share information and tips while answering questions from family members of those with dementia and care providers. The workshop was so successful that another was held early in 2024, with plans to continue offering more in the future.

The airport’s hard work was acknowledged with a slew of industry awards and recognition throughout the year, topping off 2023 when Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport was once again named the top airport in the nation among large airports by the Wall Street Journal. Our high scores in the Wall Street Journal’s Annual Airports Ranking Study were derived from factors including having the fewest flight cancellations, excellent taxi out time, and affordable rideshare fees.

Our partner airlines played a big role in making this possible, enhancing air service in 2023 by creating more service routes, including American Airlines offering 263 average daily flights to 94 destinations as the winter season approached. This marked the airline’s largest schedule at Phoenix Sky Harbor in nearly a decade. Across the board, we had 21 new destinations and two new international carriers. This along with the opening of new shops and restaurants in the Eighth Concourse at Terminal 4 contributed to the high marks, customer satisfaction, and industry recognition.

More shops and restaurants will open this year, enhancing the travel experience for all our valued customers. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is revved up and ready for 2024, and we are excited for what is to come as we continue providing stellar service to our partner airlines and customers.

March Madness Begins with Final Four Travel Tips

The NCAA Men’s Final Four activities will be held April 5-8 at State Farm Stadium in Glendale. Be prepared and see how our travel tips can save you time.

If you are flying in for the NCAA Men’s Final Four, it is a good idea to reserve your rental car in advance since vehicles may be limited for walk up customers.

The day after the NCAA Men’s Final Four (Tuesday, April 9) will be busy. If you are departing then, please remember:

  • If you have a souvenir program, it must be placed in your carry-on bag.
  • For questions about carry-on and checked items, please visit TSA.gov.

Additional Travel Tips

Get more great travel tips on traveling to and from Phoenix during Final Four weekend.

Visitor Resources

Many NCAA Men’s Final Four activities will take place in downtown Phoenix. If you are visiting Arizona for these activities, check out these helpful tips and links.

Getting to Know PHX Planespotters One Shot at a Time

A few years ago, Ethan Weiner discovered an app online that allows people to track airplanes. His curiosity led him to download the app. After clicking the airplane icon, the app prompted a picture of the plane in the description. He was anxious and hopeful to see some of the planes on the app in person, so he decided to take a trip to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.

The day he visited, he immediately began taking pictures and videos of planes and quickly realized he loved plane spotting, which soon became a passion. He now has different cameras and lenses that help him capture the beauty of aviation with every shot.

You can enjoy more of his work via his Instagram page @esw_plane_pix and check out some of his photos that have been featured in magazines and reposted by major airlines. Ethan loves that airplanes come in so many different shapes, sizes, and paint jobs, from traditional to colorful special liveries.

Taxiway Uniform Update

Phoenix Sky Harbor is preparing for the construction of Taxiway Uniform (Taxiway U) that will improve aircraft and passenger efficiency on the airfield and support the airport’s objective of net zero carbon by 2040. Taxiway U will connect the north side of the airfield to the south side of the airfield. At 2,000 feet long and 214 feet wide, Taxiway U is the first City of Phoenix project to benefit from the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The project will also allow for the realignment of Sky Harbor Boulevard and Buckeye Road.

Construction of Taxiway U will ultimately enhance safety through improved ground operations and reduce the airport’s carbon emissions footprint, as planes and passengers will spend less time in transit to gates.

Elevate PHX: Shell at Sky Harbor

An airport is probably the last place you would think to find a zen-like, relaxing space for chiropractic and massage therapies but at Phoenix Sky Harbor that’s a reality thanks to Dr. Barbara Rogne and her team at Shell at Sky Harbor.

“I always felt the airport would be an intriguing and exciting adventure,” said Rogne, who’s been practicing in the Phoenix area for 33 years and is known for her downtown Phoenix location, Shell Chiropractic. Dr. Rogne said her inspiration behind opening a second location at the airport was actually the employees who make this 24/7 environment run. “It’s been really interesting getting to know more about the employees and the work they do,” said Rogne, adding that she loves meeting the staff from all occupations of the airport and being able to connect and provide a service for them.

Even though Shell at Sky Harbor was opened with the employee in mind, anyone is welcome to take advantage of their services. In fact, it’s been a thrill for Dr. Rogne and her staff as they’ve interacted and treated travelers from across the globe. “Meeting people from all over the world has been an amazing experience.”

Dr. Rogne refers to the airport as a “biodome” and said she’s always been fascinated by the people, the size, and the vast array of what goes on at what she calls a “city within a city.” Dr. Rogne takes pride in helping her patients and providing them with treatment, whether they’re traveling on business, just passing through the airport or Phoenix Sky Harbor is their place of work.

“We give our best every single time we treat a patient,” said Rogne, who almost wishes she discovered a space at the airport sooner after opening her Terminal 4 location in August 2023. Noting that, she often hears employees and travelers remark, “Why hasn’t this been here all along?”

Dr. Rogne encourages anyone who is interested or even skeptical to stop by and visit. She’s more than happy to give anyone a personal tour of their space, have a conversation, explain her services and why she treats patients. “We treat you like you’re the only patient,” said Rogne. Shell at Sky Harbor is open seven days a week, 10 hours a day, and is located pre-security in Terminal 4.

American Airlines Adds New Routes

In February, American Airlines will launch service from Phoenix to Tijuana International Airport making Phoenix Sky Harbor the only international airport with service between Tijuana and the United States. Additionally, American Airlines will start another brand new daily non-stop route between Phoenix and Tri-Cities Airport in Pasco, WA. Those flights will utilize an Embraer-175 with room for 76 passengers. See all the destinations you can fly to from PHX on skyharbor.com.

A Year of Art at the Airport

2023 was a busy year for Sky Harbor and especially for the Phoenix Airport Museum. The museum presented 11 exhibitions highlighting diverse themes related to Arizona’s unique art and culture. Exhibitions featured the artistic talent of 121 artists from more than 60 Arizona cities. From artwork that visually interprets biomedical research to memorabilia from a local concert promoter’s personal collection, each exhibition highlights the creativity within our state while enriching the airport visitors’ experience.

The Phoenix Airport Museum’s fine art collection grew by nearly 10% in 2023. With 110 new artworks added, the museum’s collection now numbers more than 1,000 works. Some of the pieces were purchased through Phoenix’s percent-for-art program while others were generously donated. These new additions not only bolster the museum's offerings but also support the local art community. Also notable is the expansion of the museum's Aviation History Collection, which received donations of more than 160 objects and images related to Arizona’s rich aviation history.

Through talks, tours and presentations, the Phoenix Airport Museum reached nearly 700 individuals celebrating art and history with 4 major events attended by travelers and locals alike. From the very first Night at the Museum to Aviation History Month, each event included free activities, art projects and giveaways.

Stay tuned in 2024 as the Phoenix Airport Museum continues to enhance the airport visitors’ experience by presenting engaging events, new artworks and diverse exhibitions.

Earn Free Parking Faster with Double Points

From now through Feb. 11, 2024, members of the Loyalty Program can earn double loyalty points when they log into their account when making a reservation at a Phoenix Sky Harbor facility.

Joining our Loyalty Program is easy: Register for an account before you make your next reservation. There's no fee to enroll and one free day of parking begins at 1,400 points for economy parking. Learn more about the program and start earning points for your parking!

There are benefits of onsite parking:

  • It’s a short walk to your gate from the Terminal garage;
  • Scan the QR code for fast entry and exit;
  • Earn loyalty points for free parking with an online reservation;

Change or cancel reservation up to one hour prior to scheduled entry to avoid charges.

Have You Heard: Innovative Restroom Technology Lands in Terminal 4

Say goodbye to walking through the restroom and checking stalls to find out which one is available. The latest innovative restroom technology at our newest concourse at Terminal 4 includes lighting that notifies the next person in line when a stall becomes available. A green light means its available, red means busy. It’s that simple. Check it out next time you visit Gates D11-D18 in Terminal 4.

Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport is proudly GBAC Star™ and Airports Council International health accredited.

A Destination or a Starting Point – The Decision is Yours

Frankfurt is a vibrant German city and one of Europe’s most important financial hubs. The city is a great jumping off point for travel throughout the region, but travelers also shouldn’t miss out on the opportunities for adventure within the city itself. Here are some ideas to make the most of your trip:

  • Wander around Frankfurt’s Old Town and take in the beautiful buildings, popular museums, or have a coffee at a local café. While you’re there, check out the Römer which is a collection of medieval buildings that was once City Hall. This is the perfect place to grab some photos.

  • While you’re in Old Town, visit Kaiserdom St. Bartholomaus Cathedral (St. Bartholomew Cathedral or the Dom as it is known as) to see an architectural masterpiece. Take the 328 steps climb to the top to see an unparalleled view of the Old Town with its famous skyline and river views. The Gothic interior of the church also houses an array of special art and artifacts.

  • If museums are your thing, check out Museumsufer Frankfurt (Museum Embankment.) There, you’ll find 26 museums within close proximity to one another. There is the German Film Museum, the Germinal Architecture Museum, the Museum of Applied Arts and so many more. Be sure to also check out the Stadel Museum which offers 700 years of European art in its collection.

  • Of course, no trip to Germany would be complete without sampling the local cuisine. Frankfurt has a variety of traditional German dishes to try from sausages to cheeses, Frankfurt Crown Cake, and much more.

  • For those looking to do some shopping or bring home souvenirs for friends or family, check out The Zeil, Frankfurt’s pedestrian shopping area, for unique items, department stores and special boutiques.

Travelers looking to explore just outside Frankfurt will find an abundance of palaces, castles, historical towns, and more within the Rhine-Main region of Germany. In fact, there are many special castles within an hour or so drive or train ride from Frankfurt including Steinau Castle which is also known as the Brothers Grimm Museum and Marburg Castle which has gorgeous views of Frankfurt and the surrounding areas. Heidelberg Castle is also accessible via train and makes a perfect town to explore with its charming streets and buildings and overall romantic atmosphere.

Additionally, Frankfurt makes a great starting point for exploring more regions of Germany as well as surrounding countries like France, Belgium, and Switzerland.

Ready to visit? With Condor’s nonstop flights between Phoenix and Frankfurt, it’s easy to get there. Condor operates three times a week from May through September. Starting this season, they will be using a new, fuel-efficient Airbus A330-900neo aircraft that will accommodate 310 passengers and feature 30 seats in Business Class, 64 seats in Premium Economy and 216 seats in Economy class. Book today at condor.com and check out the Frankfurt Tourism Office for more travel inspiration.

A New England Getaway That Offers a Rich History and a Wealth of Activities

Looking to visit New England? It’s easier than ever from Phoenix. Did you know Breeze Airways offers nonstop flights between Phoenix and Hartford, Connecticut?

Hartford offers a variety of activities for visitors. Here are some top picks:

Love history and literature? You’re in for a treat. Visit the Mark Twain House and Museum. Mark Twain is a literary icon authoring such works as The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. You’ll be able to check out the 25 room Victorian Gothic home as well as see artifacts from Twain’s life. It’s not to be missed.

Harriet Beecher Stowe was an abolitionist and the author of “Uncle Tom’s Cabin.” Visit the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center to see her former home and learn more about how she fought against slavery.

Take a guided tour of the Connecticut State Capitol. Visitors will have the opportunity to see the stunning legislative chambers, gaze at the majestic dome and learn more about the state’s government.

Check out the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art: This is one of the oldest operating art museums in the United States and offers an impressive number of works from pieces from ancient Greece and Rome to Renaissance works to impressionist pieces and more.

There are other attractions like the Connecticut Science Center and the Connecticut Historical Society Museum, but if you don’t want to spend all your time indoors, be sure to try some outdoor activities too. You could visit Bushnell Park to enjoy the flora and fauna or get a close-up look at the Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Arch. Elizabeth Park Conservatory has a beautiful rose garden when it’s in season too.

Visitors can also enjoy performing arts at TheaterWorks, local breweries, seasonal festivals and more. To find out what’s happening and more information on the various attractions, visit hartford.com.

On The FLY: Employee Jumps in and Helps Passenger

A passenger on a private shuttle misplaced a bag but an airport employee kept contact with the traveler until the driver could return it.

Ralph P., and airport operations assistant with the Aviation Department, went beyond his normal duties for this customer, and his actions even impressed the private shuttle company’s general manager who called the airport directly to thank Ralph for doing a great job!

Ralph jumped in to help a passenger and for that he was recognized by Sky Harbor’s Customer Service On the FLY team (F = Friendly. L = Let me help. Y = You.)

Tell us your story of a Sky Harbor employee who performed to the airport’s high expectations of customer service at skyharbor@Phoenix.gov and we’ll make sure they get the recognition they deserve.

New Year, New You, New Job

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is the largest economic engine in the state of Arizona. The airport is marking two years of hosting monthly job fairs to help prospective employees get hired at PHX, as the airport continues to see a record number of passengers traveling.

Job Fairs in 2024 will be held the first Tuesday of the month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the 44th Street PHX Sky Train® Station located at 44th and Washington streets. The station is easily accessible by bus and Valley Metro Rail and a transit pass will be offered to attendees. Parking is also available.

At the January Job Fair 24 employers greeted and interacted with 223 prospective employees and 50 people were hired that day on the spot. Don’t miss out on an exciting new career at America’s Friendliest Airport®, the next job fair is scheduled for Feb. 6.

No pre-registration is required to attend.

It’s important to note that job openings not only include those at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, but also those at Deer Valley and Goodyear airports! Find your exciting career with opportunities ranging from managing concessions, to ensuring aircraft are cleaned and fueled, to providing top products, food, and services to our travelers and customers. The Transportation Security Administration offers a wide range of career opportunities — whether you are an experienced business professional, recent college, or high school graduate, or transitioning military personnel. Benefits vary by each company, but may include health insurance and retirement options, retention bonuses, employee assistance programs and sign-on bonuses.

To learn more and to see positions being recruited by the airport and their partners, visit skyharbor.com/jobs, which is updated monthly before each job fair.

Check out this Hot Job at PHX!

The City of Phoenix Aviation Department is seeking a motivated electrician to fill an open position. The electrician position performs skilled level electrician work in the maintenance, construction, installation, alteration/modification, and repair of electrical systems such as airfield series lighting, medium voltage gear, and preventive maintenance on equipment and fixtures in accordance with standard practices of the electrical trade for primarily commercial and industrial applications. Certain assignments may include electronics metering and instrumentation and working with various voltages. Assignments are received verbally and electronically through the work order process. 

The schedule for this position is third shift: 8:30 p.m.-7 a.m. Monday-Thursday or Wednesday-Saturday.

To apply for this job visit phoenix.gov/jobs and search job ID - 53028.

12 Days of Gratitude Recap

2023 ended with another successful 12 Days of Gratitude celebration. For the second year in a row, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport held its popular event featuring numerous airport-wide activities to express gratitude to customers while also giving travelers an opportunity to show their appreciation for others.

Passengers enjoyed free games and prizes, photo opportunities with custom holiday backdrops, visits from the airport mascot Amelia the Airplane and friendly Navigator Buddies, participating in art activities and tours hosted by the Airport Museum team, and writing cards of gratitude for military service members. The PHX team canvased the airport, handing out countless prizes, including a randomly selected grand prize winner daily.

Once again, feelings of gratitude and appreciation echoed throughout America’s Friendliest Airport®. Be sure to follow the airport on social media at @PHXSkyHarbor for a heads up on all the upcoming events that will be taking place in 2024!

Birdwatcher’s Report

It may be old, but it still runs fast! Delta’s all white Boeing 767, registered under #N109DL, will be turning 41 years old this April. Its first flight was recorded on 04/23/1983.

Photo courtesy @airplanes365 on Instagram